Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka Toast Inclusivity with New Book "Both Sides of the Glass"

Beloved actors, entertainers, and LGBTQ+ advocates Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka are bringing a fresh approach to social gatherings with the publication of their new book, "Both Sides of the Glass: Paired Cocktails and Mocktails to Toast Any Taste." Scheduled for release on September 30, 2025, the book is already generating buzz for its unique and inclusive take on cocktail culture, offering a joyful blend of 35 cocktails and 35 mocktails designed to ensure that everyone can raise a glass—regardless of their relationship with alcohol .

The concept for "Both Sides of the Glass" is deeply rooted in the couple’s personal lives. Harris, a longtime cocktail enthusiast, has been known for crafting inventive drinks, including the Black Magic Margarita served at Epcot Center’s La Cava Del Tequila and weekly features in his Wondercade newsletter. Burtka, an acclaimed chef and entertainer, has celebrated eight years of sobriety as of 2024, making him a passionate advocate for creating festive, alcohol-free alternatives that feel just as celebratory as their alcoholic counterparts .

Burtka’s drive to avoid lackluster “virgin” versions of classic drinks led the couple to experiment with fresh ingredients from their garden, global flavor profiles, and a wide range of emerging nonalcoholic spirits. Their seven-year journey culminates in a book that not only reflects their shared creativity, but also their commitment to making every guest feel welcome at the table .

"Both Sides of the Glass" stands out for its dual approach: every alcoholic cocktail is paired with a nonalcoholic mocktail, ensuring that nondrinkers and those who are sober-curious can enjoy drinks that are just as flavorful and thoughtfully crafted. The recipes are organized around the four elements—fire, earth, water, and air—providing thematic inspiration and a sense of adventure for readers .

This inclusive philosophy taps into a broader trend: according to a 2025 Gallup poll, the percentage of American adults who report drinking alcohol has reached a record low since the survey began in 1939. The rise of sober curiosity and the growing demand for elevated nonalcoholic options have fueled a wave of innovation in the beverage industry, and Harris and Burtka’s book is poised to be a major contribution to this movement .

As an openly gay couple who have long used their platform to promote LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusivity, Harris and Burtka’s collaboration sends a powerful message about the importance of creating spaces where everyone is welcome, regardless of their choices around alcohol. Their approach mirrors broader LGBTQ+ community values of acceptance, celebration, and the recognition of diverse identities and experiences.

The book’s release also coincides with a period of renewed focus on sobriety and mental health within the LGBTQ+ community, where higher rates of substance use have historically been linked to minority stress and discrimination. By spotlighting both cocktails and mocktails, Harris and Burtka offer affirming options for those who are sober, sober-curious, or simply seeking to moderate their consumption—without sacrificing the joy of gathering together .

Each of the 70 recipes in "Both Sides of the Glass" is the result of careful experimentation and a desire to balance flavors, textures, and presentation. For example, a classic Manhattan is reinvented as a “Liar’s Manhattan” using Lyre’s nonalcoholic spirit and other thoughtful substitutions, while a gin-based Alaska transforms into the “Iceberg” through the use of innovative zero-proof spirits. These recipes demonstrate that abstaining from alcohol does not mean sacrificing sophistication or enjoyment .

The pair’s culinary explorations also draw on their shared experiences as home entertainers and parents, making the book accessible to a wide range of readers. Whether hosting a lively Pride party or an intimate family gathering, "Both Sides of the Glass" offers inspiration for every occasion.

The book’s arrival is already being met with anticipation from the LGBTQ+ community, allies, and the beverage industry alike. Its message aligns with the ongoing expansion of Pride celebrations to include more inclusive spaces and events, as well as the hospitality sector’s increasing investment in sophisticated nonalcoholic offerings .

Autographed editions of the book are available for preorder, further highlighting the personal investment of Harris and Burtka in connecting directly with their audience .

With "Both Sides of the Glass," Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka are raising a glass to a future where every celebrant—regardless of their preferences—can find a seat at the table. Their book is both a practical guide and a celebration of diversity, hospitality, and the enduring power of community. As the LGBTQ+ community continues to lead conversations around inclusion and innovation, Harris and Burtka’s latest collaboration is a timely and welcome addition to the cultural landscape.